Flat Iron: Affordable Steak at Its Best

Discovering Flat Iron: A Hidden Gem in Soho

Finding affordable eats in a pricey place like London has always been one of my favourite pastimes.

Today, I’m excited to share my love for Flat Iron, a steakhouse where you can indulge your meat cravings without breaking the bank.

While prices have slightly changed over the years due to inflation, the deliciousness and value remain the same.

My First Visit: A Steal for a Student

I first discovered Flat Iron back in 2012 when I was still at university doing my master's degree. It was such a fantastic find for a student on a budget - £10 for a steak was a game-changer!

The queue outside their first location on Beak Street, Soho was always massive, and the long wait didn’t seem to deter anyone because the value was so good.

The real draw was the combination of an unbeatable price for a decent steak and the novelty of their adorable steak knives, which became an attraction in their own right.

You couldn’t help but fall in love with the place. And let me tell you, that queue was no joke! It stretched well beyond the door, but the excitement of getting in always made it worth the wait.

The Price: Great Value, Even With Inflation

Back then, I could never believe I was getting such great quality for such a low price.

It was the perfect treat for a student like me, and even though the prices have gone up slightly over the years (thanks, inflation!), it’s still fantastic value - especially in a city like London where dining out can be super expensive.

The Menu: Simple Yet Satisfying

Now, Flat Iron has grown and opened several locations across the city, including Soho, Tottenham Court Road, Covent Garden, and Shoreditch.

But the charm and value that made it such a hit in 2012 are still very much alive today. A steak now costs around £15, which includes the steak and a side salad.

If you want fries or veggies on the side, it’s a little extra, but it’s still great value when you compare it to other places in London.

While waiting for your food, you’re also treated to a mug of beef-dripping popcorn, a fun touch that’s become a staple of the Flat Iron experience.

The Steak: Tender, Juicy, and Perfectly Medium-Rare

The steak itself is simple but satisfying - tender, juicy, and served medium rare.

The portions might be a bit smaller, especially for bigger appetites, but for the price, it’s hard to complain. The sides, like fries and market greens, are always a win.

I’ve tried the blue cheese salad (which was a bit too strong for me) and the creamed spinach (which was a little too salty), but that's just me!

The Atmosphere: Cool, No-Frills, and Fun

What keeps me coming back, aside from the food, is the overall vibe of the place.

The cool, no-frills atmosphere, along with those adorable steak knives, always make the meal feel a bit more special.

I almost wanted to take one home as a souvenir - don’t worry, I didn’t (though it was tempting!).

Why I Keep Coming Back

Flat Iron has been one of my go-to recommendations for dinner in Central London for years.

I’ve been so many times that I’ve stopped taking photos of my meals (a big deal for me, haha). But if you haven’t been yet, trust me, it’s a must-try.

Here are some of their current locations:

• 17 Beak St, Soho, W1F 9RW (Soho) - Their first location, and still a favourite.
• 9 Denmark St, Soho, WC2H 8LS (Tottenham Court Road)
• 2-4 Maiden Lane, Covent Garden, WC2E 7NA (Covent Garden)
• 3 Great Eastern St, Shoreditch, EC2A 3EJ (Shoreditch)

Enjoy your steak feast!

Verna x

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